USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Saugus > Town annual report of Saugus 1931 > Part 31
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School Attendance
Last summer Mr. C. E. Light resigned his position as attend- ance officer and was succeeded by Mr. George Tweedy.
This is a position for which we have never paid an adequate salary. Few people realize how much work devolves upon an
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attendance officer during the year. Truancy is confined to but few pupils but these few repeat again and again, and by so doing lose their standing in class, lower the general standard of the school, make unnecessary tronble for the attendance officer and expense for the town. Parents of these pupils are urged to make special efforts to keep them in school regularly.
Mr. Tweedy has sumitted a report to which your attention is respectfully called.
High School
Work in the High School has been very successfully carried on during the past year. A closer organization has been effected and the standard has been maintained in the face of adverse con- ditions resulting from the two platoon system.
For more definite information you are respectfully referred to the report of Principal Evans.
Junior High
By a re-arrangement of classes at the Sweetser building it seemed desirable to employ a man to teach a junior high school class, to serve as principal of the intermediate department and to keep himself well informed concerning the needs of the building. Mr. Alfred A. Adams was elected to this position. Mr. Young still retains the supervision of the Junior High Department, but has much more freedom to care for the interests of that much larger portion attending in the central building in the afternoon.
Two additional rooms in the Sweetser building were utilized for intermediate grades, the three eighth grade teachers were transferred from the Sweetser building to the Central Junior High and one seventh grade teacher, from the Central Junior High to the Sweetser building. This rearrangement placed all pupils of grade eight in the afternoon session at the Central build- ing. This grade occupies ten rooms and grade seven, attending in the afternoon, occupies four rooms.
Special Subjects
In a preceding paragraph we have given a brief outline of our plans for economy.
These plans affect mainly our special lines of work as it is diffi- cult to reduce the number of classroom teachers especially in the intermediate grades. Eliminations have in no way been brought about through dissatisfaction with the work of our special teach- ers, in fact, their work during the past year has been of a very
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
high order. This line comprises mechanical drawing, freehand drawing, music, penmanship, physical training, sewing and other manual training.
On these subjects there are reports by Mrs. Kellogg, Miss Edwards, Miss Griffin, Miss Douglas, Mr. Bund, Mr. Rice and Miss Nelson. To these reports you are respectfully referred.
Our Health Program
In our last report we advocated a more definite health program by linking physical training with the work of school physicians and nurse, the physical training to be much more extensive than formerly. We still believe that under normal conditions there would be sufficient benefit from such a program to more than justify the additional expense, but hardly believe that this is an opportune time for expansion. In the interests of economy, so sorely needed this year, we must content ourselves to "carry on" along the lines already established. You are respectfully referred to the reports of our school physicians and nurse.
Opportunity Class
This class of work is supplying a real need. There will be a larger enrollment in September, 1932, but we shall endeavor to care for all such pupils in the two rooms now devoted to the work. Your attention is respectfully called to a more definite report submitted by the head of this department, Miss Mullins.
That New High School Building
The crying need for a new High School building is too well known to need any extended discussion here.
We can only hope that a satisfactory solution of this perplexing problem may be found without further unnecessary delay.
Two Platoon Systems
We have very little new to offer regarding the two platoon system. The evils of it are so well known that there is hardly any need of further discussion of the subject. However, we would call attention to the fact that it will be exceedingly diffi- cult to house all of the Senior High School pupils, next year, during the forenoon, we shall exhaust our powers in an attempt to do so, and can only hope that we may be successful.
The housing of one Senior High School class in the afternoon would mean that a five hour high school day must be reduced to
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four hours, and would also mean that a teacher would be obliged to teach four or five different subjects. Any teacher who could do this successfully would be a paragon.
Transportation
Transportation during the past year has been carried on very successfully and at a very low rate, considering the amount of work involved. It cost us during the past year, for contract work, $20.00 a day as against $28.00 a day in 1930. Because of this we saved $1,460 on this item alone during 1931.
We are hoping to keep the expense from becoming greater, but we may not be successful along this line, since there are 7 high school pupils, living near the Wakefield line, who must have transportation furnished them a part of the way, or their tuition paid in the Wakefield High School. We believe it will be much better to transport these pupils to our own high school, even though the school is now overcrowded. The cost of trans- portation would be about one-third of the cost of tuition in the Wakefield High School. Even this amount would add nearly $270.00 to the charges for transportation.
Recommendations
The Superintendent hesitates to offer recommendations since the lack of funds will probably not admit of any expansion. However, it is well to keep in mind our aims, although they may not be realized for some time to come.
(1) We recommend smaller classes where possible, in order that more individual work may be given to those needing it. (2) More attention given to cultural and moral needs. (3) Greater attention to the physical welfare of those who do not have normal development. (4) The elimination of the two-platoon system at the earliest possible moment. (5) Solution of the problem result- ing from an overcrowded High School building.
Repairs
At the annual town meeting of 1931, $8,605 was appropriated for general repairs and $1,000 by special article for replacing a part of the parapet of the Sweetser building and for other renova- tions connected with such improvement.
These appropriations were sufficient to meet requirements and, as a result we feel that school buildings throughout the town are in very good condition.
[Dec. 31
TOWN DOCUMENTS.
During 1931 we have made improvements on the Sweetser building as noted above, have painted the exterior of the North Saugus and the Oaklandvale School buildings and the interior of the Armitage building. We have completed renovation of the two upper rooms of the old Center building, have replaced the antiquated toilets at the Emerson School by strictly modern ones and in connection therewith have the latest system of ventilation. We have also made extensive repairs on the roof of the high school building and have waterproofed the northeast wall of the Ballard building.
Various small pieces of work have been done as conditions required.
Wear and tear on school buildings is by no means small but in the interest of economy we believe that an appropriation should be made this year no larger than may seem necessary to meet the general need.
ยท Conclusion
The past year has been an improvement over former years, particularly in the High School where a closer organization has been maintained.
Department heads have organized their respective departments and as a result there is less duplication of work and consequently a higher standard.
There has been a satisfactory advancement in the elementary grades and we feel well pleased in general with the results secured during 1931.
The Superintendent would call special attention to the marked cooperation between teachers and parents.
In closing the Superintendent expresses appreciation for the hearty support of the School Committee, for the cheerful and efficient manner in which the teachers have met and solved their many problems and for the spirit in which the citizens of Saugus have cooperated with us during the year.
Respectfully submitted,
JESSE W. LAMBERT, Superintendent of Schools.
SAUGUS, January 12, 1932.
1931]
REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
Report of School Physicians
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus, Mass.
DEAR SIR,-My Annual Report as School Physician is herein submitted.
Sanitary conditions at the High School, the Roby School, No. Saugus and the Oaklandvale schools are quite satisfactory.
During the routine examinations of pupils, I found the follow- ing defects and diseases :
Deflected Septum 34 Enlarged glands 23
Enlarged tonsils 107
Pediculosis 18
Slightly enlarged tonsils 70
Spinal curvature
2
Adenoids and tonsils 85
Scabies 3
Heart defects 4 Impetigo 5
Total number of children given toxin anti-toxine for the preven- tion of diphtheria 327.
The incidence of diseases dangerous to the public health has been reduced almost to the vanishing point in the schools by the constant vigilance and fine cooperation of teachers and school nurse. I would strongly recommend the removal of the shower bath from its present location in the basement of the High School. If it is necessary for the boys to take a shower after engaging in athletic contests, it should be so arranged that this could be done in a more sanitary manner.
Very respectfully,
M. H. DAVIS, M. D.
January 15, 1932.
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools,
Saugus, Mass.
DEAR SIR,-Herein I submit my annual report or the year 1931.
Our examination of pupils in the Armitage, Cliftondale, Felton and Sweetser Schools the following defects were found.
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[Dec. 13
Enlarged tonsils
1 88
Slightly enlarged tonsils 269
Adenoids and tonsils 6
Enlarged glands
23
Heart defects
2
Pediculosis 9
Spinal curvature 5
Impetigo I
There appears to be a general improvement in the physical condition of the pupils each year.
With very few exceptions the children are clean, and this is a marked change over a few years.
The sanitary conditions are satisfactory.
Respectfully submitted,
LEROY C. FURBUSH, M.D.
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus, Mass. 1
DEAR SIR :- I herewith submit my annual report as school physician at the Ballard, Emerson, Mansfield and Lynnhurst Schools, and find the following defects :
Enlarged tonsils 68 Pediculosis 23
Slightly enlarged tonsils
58
Curvature of spine I
Adenoids 20
Scabies 8
Heart defects 9 Impetigo 22
Enlarged glands
24
The response this year to the diphtheria prevention treatment was very pleasing, and this is due to the diligent work of the school nurse and the teaching staff of all the schools. The second grade at the Ballard had 100 per cent. The teaching staff have cooperated in every way possible with the school physician and nurse.
At the Ballard school we hold a clinic every Wednesday morning, and by so doing have almost eliminated scabies and impetigo from the schools. Many cases have also been sent to my office. These cases are sent by the Principals of the schools.
Respectfully submitted,
MARY M. PENNY, M.D.
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Report of Attendance Officer
To the School Committee :
I feel that the depression is the sole reason, for the most part, of absence of the pupils that I have been requested to call upon. In nearly every case, lack of shoes and clothing have been the reason for absence.
I have reported it to the proper authorities and the needs have been supplied. I have also found many cases of illness in absences brought to my attention, with no intention of truancy on the part of the pupil.
Respectfully submitted,
GEORGE A. TWEEDY, Attendance Officer.
January 12, 1932.
Report of High School Principal
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools,
Saugus Mass.
DEAR MR. LAMBERT,-I herewith present my annual report as Principal of Saugus High School.
I shall sub-divide it under the three following headings :
I. Scholastic standing.
2. Need of a new Senior High School.
3. Loyalty of Teachers.
SCHOLASTIC STANDING
Saugus High School continues to maintain its high scholastic standing. This has been maintained in the face of working con- ditions in a building overcrowded and far from satisfactory. I shall strive to maintain our present grade of scholarship in the future no matter what the conditions.
NEED OF A NEW SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
I shall simply reiterate the fact that Saugus needs a new mod- ern Senior High School badly. I have recently submitted a very
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detailed report to the special investigating committee headed by Mr. J. Arthur Rrddin. This report shows conclusively why a new building is needed. Interested citizens may find all details in this report.
Mr. Robert R. Webber, former principal of Saugus High School, and I have pointed out this need year after year and still there is no new building. It would appear unavailing to say more.
In September, 1933, however, it appears a virtual certainty that the Senior High School will be forced to go on a two-platoon session basis. In all probability at least three rooms of students will have to attend school in the afternoon. The effect of such a system must be obvious to anyone. I trust that something shall be done to relieve conditions before this happens.
LOYALTY OF TEACHERS
May I pay tribute to the unselfish devotion and loyalty of my High School teachers. Many of them are receiving salaries ridiculously under their actual worth. Few even receive pay equal to our police and firemen. Yet they labor on doing a wonderful work under extremely discouraging conditions. Their reward lies in the service they render.
During the past school year Saugus High School suffered an irreparable loss in the death of Miss Helen Frances Cunningham. An English teacher of exceptional ability and a young woman of beautiful character she endeared herself to us all. Her memory we will ever cherish.
In Memoriam
HELEN FRANCES CUNNINGHAM
"And when she passed I think there went A soul to yonder firmament So white, so splendid and so fine It came almost to God's design."
In closing may I extend my thanks to the honorable School Committee and to you, our beloved Superintendent of Schools. I appreciate the wonderful cooperation that I have received from my superiors.
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
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I have purposely made this report very brief in order that the expense of it may be reduced to a minimum.
Respectfully submitted,
VERNON W. EVANS.
Report of Principal of Junior High
January 1, 1932.
DEAR MR. LAMBERT, -I submit for your approval my sixth annual report of the progess in Saugus Junior High School, for . the year 1931.
Conditions were very satisfactory in both sections of the Junior High School system from January to June, 1931. Each school run on a different basis, regarding session, time and studies, worked to capacity with a result apparently successful.
The total number of pupils leaving Grade VIII, June 25, 1931 was 250, of this number 28 were promoted with a condition in one subject. The total number of Grade VII pupils promoted to Grade VIII was 300, with 15 required to repeat Grade VII. Appropriate promotion exercises were held in the High School Hall, with Miss Mabel C. Bragg of Boston University as the guest speaker.
CHANGES IN FACULTY
In September, 1931, two additional rooms of Sweetser School were opened for Grade VI children with increasing number of faculty changes in the Junior High School. Miss Wentworth, Miss Peterson and Mrs. Rice were transferred to the Central due to all Eighth Grades being assigned there. In the Sweetser School Mr. Alfred A. Adams, Jr., was elected to teach English VII. Miss Patten was granted absence for a year. Miss Gladys Fox became teacher of Literature VII and Miss Willard was changed from the Central to the Sweetser for Geography work in Grade VII.
Miss Dorothy Thompson was changed from English VIII to the High School Faculty, Miss Shirley Russell being elected to teach English VIII. Miss Armstrong became Instructor of French with Miss Kathryn Staples elected to teach Latin. Miss Dorothy Eccles, Assistant Music Instructor did excellent work from November to June.
Miss Elsie Anderson was married in June. Miss Sita Allen was then employed as Mathematics VII teacher.
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
The total number of Junior High School pupils in September was 610, 460 at Central in fourteen rooms, 150 at Sweetser in four rooms. All Grade VIII pupils, 300, are at the Central.
The work in Sewing and Manual Training has progressed as usual. Each child is required to complete several units of work during the year. The two courses are very instructive and the articles fashioned are the property of the maker after completion for credits.
Drawing and Music are also studied by each child. Though they occupy but one or two periods per week, they are necessary as part of a correct program, and they furnish relaxation from the more strenuous studies. We find occasionally, pupils with remarkable ability in Drawing or Music, unable to perform pass- ing work in any regular study. For such pupils the special subjects are the incentive for them to attend school. Twenty Hathaway Contest entries were from this Junior High School. Several Radio studios have had Saugus Junior High School talent broadcast since September.
The ordinary work in English, Mathematics and Social Studies and Literature is such as to keep normal child advancing at a pace equal to ordinary ability. There is nothing naive about it, nor is it beyond the intelligence of a child who applies himself. Comparisons of marks bear out this statement.
The Junior High School has an average of two assemblies in three weeks, and always preceding a holiday. The exercises are so arranged that every person takes part in four or more numbers in the program. Usually several students have prominent assign- ments, as reading, dancing, etc. Generally we have a guest lec- turer or artist. These assemblies are open to the public at all times without further invitation.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ORGANIZATION
Experience has proved that the great majority of pupils are interested in Club Work. Each teacher sponsors a club. The four new clubs added sin September, are : Embroidery, Nature, Artcraft, Folk Dancing Club.
Each club has definite aims, all working finally to a better school as well as individual profits. At present there are 460 children moving into IS clubrooms each Tuesday from 3.10-3.40 P.M. Membership ranges from 15 to 45, average 20.
The school orchestra comprises 30 pupils. Each graduation takes about fifty percent of the members, but since it is being continually augmented by younger musicians, the net results are
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balanced soon after school begins in the fall. It is difficult to understand how accomplished these young people are, until one has had opportunity to witness their performance in an assembly. The Sweetser orchestra has a number of fine performers in grades 5-6-7.
Each School staged an operetta in the Spring. The Sweetser Glee Club members presented "The Sunbonnet Girl." The Central Glee Club presented "Way Down South in Dixie." Many of those taking part have now had two years study in operetta work which will be of decided help in their years to fol- low at Senior High School. All members at the Central had the opportunity to learn in class various parts of "When Trouba- dours Sang" but it would have been a costly, mammoth task for the Junior High School to present it.
The Junior Traffic Squad has been carried on from last year, augmented from four to nine. These young men are selected for extra reaponsibility, and perform numerous small units of work all tending to make the school a better place in which to study. They are trained to accept responsibility and act as leaders for regular work or emergencies, of which we have many.
In May each school held an exhibition of work regularly done in class and club. The exhibition is an annual affair at which we endeavor to have every child have at least some one thing to show as his own hand-work. Much more interest is attached to the exhibitions if a parent is able to discover there, articles, which his own child has made. The time spent is doubly enjoyable due to musical and dramatic entertainment.
Inter-city baseball was in order last spring. The Sweetser players were able to have series with several outside teams, due to their having school in the morning. The Central Ball Club members had three games on Stackpole's Field. Their handicap came, in that they were free only while other schools were in session. Many fine baseball players will soon be seen in the High School ranks, due to experience in the Junior High School athletics.
DEFICIENCY CARDS
I would like to explain in detail how the deficiency card system is working. At the Central, 460 students have studies whereby 2,800 possible deficiencies, red or yellow may be re- ceived per month. On December 1, 620 cards were distributed by 14 teachers, obviously more in the subjects of English and Mathematics in the two grades. Some children were even below passing in every subject and have been month after month.
[Dec. 31
TOWN DOCUMENTS.
Any child who in one month, can get seven, the highest num- ber of deficiency cards to any one person, failing in each subject from seven different teachers comes quite near showing his par- ents that he wastes time in school. The vast majority of chil- dren by study at home' each day, and attention to business while in school are able to obtain a mark of 70 per cent each month and finish the required work on time. It is the exception to the rule when a child really applies himself, does homework and school work and fails. I want to impress upon you that I have never seen a public school teacher deliberately fail a pupil.
Regardless of the fact that more than two hundred pupils re- ceived a deficiency card, or more than one, figures show that a larger number, 250, were not failing in a single subject. What- ever harm is done by having a child receive a red or yellow defic- iency card, it is more than compensated because the parent wishes his child to get ahead, and doubtless will see to it that in the future the child does better. At least that is one object of the cards, and I am delighted to know that many parents have expressed their willingness to cooperate.
Allowing any signature but that of the parent, defeats the pur- pose of the warning, just the same as having a report card not scanned by both parents. It would be well for both parents to get an understanding of the child's card at the end of each mark- ing period, and observe carefully the printed information on the reverse side of the card.
If any parent calls at school for information it will be given as clearly as possible.
If a child repeatedly gets three or four warning slips in a sub- ject, he is sure to fail that subject for the year. Two subjects failed mean that he will have to repeat the grade. Surely it is worth while to watch these deficiency warnings.
ATTENDANCE
Students in the Junior High School have been urged to plan their time so that they arrive on the school property at 12.45, and not before. The Senior High dismisses at 12.50, and there is much distraction in having 460 young people arriving in the neighborhood before 12.45, as the Junior High School does not go into session until i o'clock.
I am pleased to note a marked decrease in tardiness and dis- missal during the past season. I feel that much of this success is directly due to the cooperation from parents for in each case
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when it has been explained to an individual parent, the trouble has stopped.
Absence presents a more serious problem. A day lost from school means work to be made up; several days of absence, a long tedious job to get into regular class standing as good as if a child had been in class each day. This school serves children from nearly every street in Saugus, from the Franklin Park line and East Saugus, Lynnhurst and North Saugus. There is opportunity for absence from school. We have very few truants, among the absentees, but I do hope each parent will accept the task of making certain that if his child is physically able, he will be in school each day, and take home enough study work to ade- quately prepare for all lessons of the following session. We know that in Grade VII there are but six free periods in the 30 scheduled. In Grade VIII, there are two, obviously not suf- ficient study time to prepare for the work required. Home work is assigned in each subject for the following day.
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